Opposition Leader Challenges University Registrar Appointment in Mysore

The Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi T. Narayanaswamy, has called for the immediate cancellation of B.K. Kempegowda's appointment as Registrar (Evaluation) at the University of Mysore. Narayanaswamy has formally requested the Chief Secretary and the Secretary of the Higher Education Department to revoke the appointment, which was issued on August 10, 2026.

What Happened

Narayanaswamy contends that the appointment of Professor Kempegowda violates established rules for the Registrar (Evaluation) position. He stated that regulations require the appointee to be a senior professor or faculty member working within universities affiliated with the Higher Education Department. Narayanaswamy pointed out that Professor Kempegowda is currently a professor at the Government First Grade College, Nanjangud, a position under the Department of Collegiate Education. This, he argued, contravenes government rules and the Karnataka State Universities Act.

Further allegations made by Narayanaswamy include claims of sexual harassment and misuse of grants against Professor Kempegowda. The opposition leader urged the government to appoint a senior professor from within the university to the role.

Background

Professor Kempegowda responded to the accusations by noting that the state government has previously appointed individuals from private colleges and government first-grade colleges to similar university positions, including Vice-Chancellor and Registrar. He asserted that his appointment followed this precedent. Regarding the specific allegations of sexual harassment and misuse of SC/ST funds, Professor Kempegowda stated they lacked substance and indicated his willingness to provide clarification with documentation if a notice is issued by the Chief Secretary and the Secretary of the Higher Education Department.

Key Facts

• Chalavadi T. Narayanaswamy, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, has objected to the appointment of B.K. Kempegowda as Registrar (Evaluation) of the University of Mysore.
• Narayanaswamy has written to the Chief Secretary and the Secretary, Higher Education Department, demanding the cancellation of the appointment.
• The government issued an order on August 10, 2026, appointing Prof. Kempegowda to the post.
• Narayanaswamy stated that university rules mandate appointments for this position come from professors or senior faculty within universities affiliated with the Higher Education Department.
• He noted Prof. Kempegowda is a professor at the Government First Grade College, Nanjangud, which he believes violates the rules.
• Allegations of sexual harassment and misuse of grants have been made against Prof. Kempegowda by Mr. Narayanaswamy.
• Prof. Kempegowda stated that similar appointments from government first-grade colleges have been made previously and denied the allegations of misconduct.